Gold prices climbed to a record high Monday, extending a blistering rally that experts don't expect to end anytime soon. What This Means for Investors Investors often acquire gold as a hedge against inflation, political turmoil and economic uncertainty, and some investing experts recommend increasing exposure to the precious metal given current market conditions. According to the World Gold Council’s 2025 Central Bank Gold Reserves Survey, 95% of central bankers expect global gold reserves to increase this year, and a record 43% forecast their own bank’s reserves would increase over the same period. Geopolitical crises are a major reason central banks add to their gold reserves. President Trump’s attacks on the Federal Reserve have also raised questions about the central bank’s independence.